STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Both Obama and Hollande have offered aid and cooperation to assist Germany in the Munich tragedy investigation

United States President Barack Obama has offered full support to Germany in investigating the deadly terror attack that killed 10 people, including the gunman who allegedly shot himself in the head, in a busy shopping mall in Munich.

Nine people, excluding the attacker, were killed in the shooting that began early yesterday evening, with 21 wounded according to the latest official toll.

"Germany is one of our closest allies, so we are going to pledge all the support that they may need in dealing with these circumstances," Obama said at the White House.

The US condemns in the strongest terms the apparent terrorist attack that has claimed innocent lives in Munich, Germany, said his spokesman, Josh Earnest.

"We still do not know all of the facts, but we do know that this heinous act has killed and injured multiple individuals in the heart of one of Europe's most vibrant cities. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, just as we wish those wounded a full recovery," he said.

"In the midst of this tragedy, the US will work closely with our German partners to whom we will make available any resources that would assist their investigation, as the President pledged. The resolve of Germany, the United States, and the broader international community will remain unshaken in the face of acts of despicable violence such as this," Earnest said.

State department spokesman John Kirby said the US is in close contact with German officials and stand ready to provide any and all assistance requested by our close friend and ally Germany in this time of crisis.

Senator Mark Kirk asked the Obama Administration to take steps to ensure similar attacks do not happen on American soil.

"This year, it has become increasingly clear that keeping Americans safe from acts of terror must be our number one priority," he said.

"We mourn alongside one of our closest allies tonight for the innocent lives taken by yet another act of terror. Now, more than ever, we must come together as a nation and fight to protect our freedoms. And we must win this fight, providing leadership to combat terrorism that threatens our very way of life," said Senator Ron Johnson, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

'A disgusting terror attack'

French President Francois Hollande today called the deadly shooting in Munich a "disgusting terrorist attack" aimed at stirring up fear in Germany after France was targeted last week.

"The terrorist attack that struck Munich killing many people is a disgusting act that aims to foment fear in Germany after other European countries," Hollande said in a statement.

"Germany will resist, it can count on France's friendship and cooperation," he said, adding that he would speak with German chancellor Angela Merkel today morning.